An urban renewal sports and cultural facility boasting of its concrete curves
The new sports and cultural complex, Espace Jean-Lucien Vazeille, designed by Jean-Pierre Lott, ungulates along the Rue du Général Exelmans. The excitement of the place is projected by its fun form and magnificent massing.
The facility engages the community with its wide-range of options - multisport rooms, dance studios, table tennis rooms as well as cultural and association spaces. The south façade has sparsely spaced openings to the respect the functionality inside its upper floors; diffused natural light enters the dance studios through light wells. Alternatively, the complex embraces its urban environment with a predominately glass ground floor which welcomes guests.
The curves continue from the exterior to the interior that has a central atrium and elliptical ramp connecting all the spaces. The feeling of movement is promoted both outside and in through volume and light and views. The materiality choice of concrete provides a contextual response to its surroundings and a sense of strength within. The Espace Jean-Lucien Vazeille is a vibrant structure in Vélizy-Villacoublay’s Louvois neighborhood and a breath of fresh air.
Location: Vélizy-Villacoublay, France
Calendar: Competition 2016, Construction 2018-2019 (24 months), Delivery 2021
Architects: Jean-Pierre Lott Architecte
Project management: INCET (all trades) and ACOUSTB (acoustics)
Companies: CBC, Bonaud, Idverde, Schindler
Photography by Takuji Shimmura, courtesy of Jean-Pierre Lott Architecte